Just picked up a Lumix S5II for my trip to Japan next month and I am totally lost on lenses. The camera came with a kit zoom but everything I read says I need a prime lens for better photos at night. I really dont know what all the numbers mean, honestly. My budget is like 600 bucks tops because the camera body already drained my savings account. I just want something that makes my travel shots look professional without being super heavy to carry around all day. Is there one specific lens that works for pretty much everything, or am I asking for too much here... what should I actually buy?
Honestly, 600 bucks for L-mount glass is pretty tight. I picked up the Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 because it was cheap, but honestly, it feels a bit plasticky. I had some issues with the focus motor being a little noisy in quieter spots, which was super annoying during my last trip. It is lightweight for Japan, sure, but the build quality is just not as good as I expected for a professional-looking setup. Unfortunately, you probably wont find a better deal that stays under budget. If you really need low light performance, this is basically your only option unless you look at the used market for the Sigma 45mm f/2.8 DG DN Contemporary. It feels way more premium than the Lumix lens, tho it is a bit slower at night.
